Canton church seeks nominations for Social Action Award

CANTON – The Unitarian Universalist Church, 3 ½ East Main St., is seeking nominations for their Social Action Award to people who make a difference in the community.

The award was established in memory of Rachel Somers Grant, a teacher and activist who lived in Canton from 1977 until her death in 1990.

The Rachel Somers Grant Social Action Award honors people who work, as Rachel did, to make ours a more humane and progressive community.

Recent recipients of the award have included Carol Neubert, an educator and advocate for gay and lesbian rights, Phil Harnden, founder of Garden Share, and last year’s winners, Chelle Lindahl and Melinda Ely, co-coordinators of the Local Living Festival.

Nominations may be submitted to the Social Action Committee, Unitarian Universalist Church, 3½ East Main Street, Canton, NY 13617, or office@uucantonny.org, Attn: SAC Award Nominations.

Nominations should be received no later than April 30.

Grant was involved in a variety of community groups, including Friends of Choice, the Social Action Committee of the UU Church, Work on Waste (an anti-incinerator, pro-recycling group) and a support group for women with cancer.

Rachel believed grassroots movements were an effective means of achieving change. She challenged the lack of responsiveness of elected officials on issues important to her community, and she was a strong advocate for causes affecting the welfare of women, families, and the environment. She had a gift for organizing diverse groups and a talent for gaining the respect of supporters and opponents alike.

To learn more about the UU Church of Canton, the church’s social justice activities, and the Rachel Somers Grant award, visit www.uucantonny.org.